Crownhill Packaging's Crucial Role in the Automotive Industry

In the fast-paced automotive industry, effective packaging is essential to protect delicate components during transit. And knowing where to get this packaging from is just as paramount.

Here at Crownhill Packaging, a SupplyOne Canada company, we are dedicated to providing the best packaging solutions and products for our clients in the automotive industry. In this post, we will explore the main packaging types we offer for automotive parts, complete with guidance on which one is best for your business needs. Read on to learn more!

Explore Our Range of Automotive Packaging Products & Solutions

Crownhill Packaging is proud to provide quality packaging solutions to automotive manufacturers across North America.

Let’s take a deep dive into some of the most popular automotive packaging products and solutions we provide:

Foam-in-Place Packaging

Foam-in-place packaging is one of the most commonly used packaging materials not just in the automotive industry, but also across manufacturing overall. Foam-in-place packaging involves moldable foam that conforms to the shape of the product, ensuring a snug and secure fit.

Uses in Automotive Industry

Foam-in-place packaging is well suited for vehicle parts packaging, including shipping the following automotive goods:

• Electronic Control Units (ECUs): Foam-in-place packaging provides customized protection for delicate circuitry and sensors, guarding them against shocks and vibrations.
• Airbags: Airbag modules contain sensitive sensors and explosive charges. Foam-in-place packaging ensures these components remain secure and isolated during transit.
• Navigation Systems: Delicate screens and electronics in navigation systems benefit from the tailored protection of foam-in-place packaging.

Advantages:

• Custom Protection: Foam-in-place packaging offers tailored protection for each component, preventing damage from shocks, vibrations, and impact.
• Ideal for Delicate Parts: Foam is well suited for safeguarding delicate electronic parts and precision-engineered engine components.

Drawbacks:

• Potentially Higher Costs: Foam-in-place packaging is more of an investment than conventional materials due to being a custom fit.
• Specialized Equipment: Requires specialized equipment for foam application.
• Limited Recyclability: Not all foam materials are readily recyclable.

Corrugated Boxes

Corrugated cardboard is a staple packaging product. Crafted from layers of kraft paper with an internal crimped layer, corrugated cardboard is durable and can successfully shield products from damage without needing heavy investment. Still, this simple yet effective packaging material is often best paired with void fill to help minimize the impact of shocks and bumps.

Uses in Automotive Industry

Corrugated cardboard boxes are commonly used to package the following automotive goods:

• Engine Components: Robust and durable corrugated boxes are ideal for transporting heavy engine parts, such as pistons, crankshafts, and camshafts.
• Suspension Components: Corrugated boxes can accommodate various suspension parts like shock absorbers and struts, ensuring they reach their destination without damage.
• Exhaust Systems: The versatility of corrugated boxes makes them suitable for packaging exhaust components, including catalytic converters.

Advantages:

• Strength and Durability: Corrugated boxes are sturdy and can handle the rigors of transportation.
• Versatility: They are adaptable for various automotive components.
• Sustainability: Many corrugated boxes are recyclable.

Drawbacks:

• Space Consuming: Corrugated boxes can take up more shipping container space compared to foam-in-place solutions.
• Limited Customization: Customization options are more limited compared to other methods.
• Not for Extremely Delicate Parts: Less suitable for extremely fragile components.

Corrugated Inserts

A step up from the regular corrugated cardboard box is the corrugated insert. Corrugated inserts are additional pieces of corrugated cardboard that are used to wrap around a product that is then placed in an appropriately sized box. They are best suited for lightweight automotive parts as heavier goods may cause the packaging to become crushed.

Uses in Automotive Industry

Corrugated inserts are best used to ship automotive goods that are relatively lightweight, such as:

• Brake Calipers: Precision-engineered corrugated inserts can securely hold brake calipers in place, preventing movement and damage.
• Batteries: Corrugated inserts can be customized to provide a snug fit for EV batteries, ensuring they are held securely during transit.
• Headlights and Taillights: Corrugated inserts help organize and protect delicate lighting components, preventing scratches and damage.

Advantages:

• Precise Protection: Corrugated inserts are engineered to fit components perfectly, preventing movement and damage during transit.
• Enhanced Efficiency: They streamline assembly lines by providing organized, easily accessible components.
• Cost-Effective Customization: Balances customization with cost-effectiveness.

Drawbacks:

• Limited Fragile Component Protection: Not as protective as foam-in-place packaging for extremely fragile parts.
• Not for All Components: Less suitable for very heavy or irregularly shaped parts.
• Customization Required: May need customization for an optimal fit.

VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors)

VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors) Packaging is a game-changer in the automotive industry when it comes to preserving the integrity of metal components during transit. This specialized packaging method utilizes corrosion-inhibiting compounds that act as a shield against rust and corrosion. It is particularly effective for critical metal parts like engine components, brake calipers, and exhaust systems.

With VCI packaging, you can trust that your metal automotive components will arrive at their destination in pristine condition, free from the corrosive effects that can compromise their functionality and longevity.

Uses in Automotive Industry

VCI packaging is ideal for preserving the integrity of various automotive parts, including:

• Engine Components: Safeguards metal engine components like pistons and crankshafts, preventing rust and corrosion during transit.
• Brake Calipers: Protects metal brake calipers, especially in humid or corrosive environments, ensuring corrosion-free delivery.
• Exhaust Systems: Provides reliable protection for metal exhaust components, such as catalytic converters, against rust and corrosion.

Benefits:

• Prevents Rust and Corrosion: VCI packaging keeps metal components rust-free during transportation.
• Preserves Component Integrity: Ensures automotive parts arrive in optimal condition.
• Environmentally Conscious: Offers corrosion protection without the need for oil-based coatings.

Drawbacks:

• Limited to Metal Components: Effective for metal parts but not suitable for non-metallic components.
• Cost: VCI packaging can be more expensive than traditional methods.
• Specialized Application: Requires knowledge of proper VCI application techniques.

PolyMask™ Packaging

PolyMask™ Packaging is an essential automotive packaging solution for protecting delicate surfaces found in automotive components. This protective film acts as a barrier, preventing scratches, scuffs, and surface damage during transport.

PolyMask™ is an excellent choice for items like navigation systems, interior trim pieces, and headlights, ensuring that they maintain their clarity and functionality throughout their journey. This packaging type offers cost-effective and efficient protection for these critical automotive components, preserving their visual appeal and functionality.

Uses in Automotive Industry

PolyMask™ Packaging is well suited for preserving the condition of many types of automotive components, including:

• Navigation Systems: Guards delicate screens and electronic surfaces of navigation systems against scratches and scuffs.
• Interior Trim Pieces: Protects plastic interior trim components like dashboard panels and door handles from surface damage during transport.
• Headlights and Taillights: Preserves plastic lenses and surfaces of headlights and taillights, preventing scratches and abrasions, and ensuring clarity and functionality.

Benefits:

• Surface Protection: Prevents scratches, scuffs, and surface damage during transit.
• Clarity Preservation: Maintains the clarity of screens and lenses for optical components.
• Cost-Efficient: Offers cost-effective protection for delicate surfaces.

Drawbacks:

• Application Skill: Proper application techniques are required to ensure effectiveness.
• Removal Process: Careful removal is necessary to avoid any residue or damage to surfaces.
• Needs Support: The product will often still require other packaging materials such as boxes to contain the item and display any shipping labels.

Obtain Quality Automotive Packaging Solutions for Your Business

In the automotive industry, choosing the right packaging is crucial and it can be easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer diversity in options. Fortunately, having a supplier who can guide you through the selection process can make it easy to get your packaging strategy up and running the way it should.

If you are looking for a bespoke guide to help you get the quality automotive packaging you deserve, contact Crownhill Packaging, a SupplyOne Canada company. Our skilled and knowledgeable team of packaging consultants can help you select and obtain the right packaging materials suited for your automotive goods. Get in touch with us today!